Monologue

/ˈmɒnəˌlɒg/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A long speech by one actor in a play or movie, or as part of a theatrical or film performance.

In the play, the main character's monologue revealed his deepest fears.

A prolonged talk or discourse by a single speaker, often in a conversational context.

The comedian's monologue about everyday life had the audience in stitches.

An extended discussion in which one person speaks and others listen, often reflecting a person's thoughts or feelings.

During therapy, she delivered a heartfelt monologue about her childhood.

From the Greek 'monologos', meaning 'speaking alone'.

internal monologue

A narrative voice that presents a character's thoughts and feelings.

stand-up monologue

A performance by a comedian that consists of a series of jokes and stories told by one person.

dramatic monologue

A type of poem or speech where a single speaker reveals their character's thoughts and feelings.

dialogue

A conversation between two or more people.

soliloquy

An act of speaking one's thoughts aloud when alone, especially in a play.

script

The written text of a play or film.

A long-winded explanation or rant.

When he started talking about his favorite TV show, it turned into a real monologue!

A speech that seems self-indulgent or excessively long.

She went off on a monologue about her vacation, and I just nodded along.